🛑 5 Signs Your Brake Pads or Discs Need Replacing
🛑 5 Signs Your Brake Pads or Discs Need Replacing
By Andrews Car Centre – Brake Specialists in Lincoln
Brakes don’t last forever — and they’re one of the most important safety systems on your car. Knowing the early signs of worn brake pads or discs can help you avoid costly repairs or even a dangerous failure.
At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we regularly inspect, repair, and replace brakes for local drivers. If you’re not sure whether it’s time for new pads or discs, here are 5 clear warning signs to look out for.
1. 🚨 Squeaking, Squealing or Grinding Noises
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Squealing usually means the brake pads are nearly worn out — many pads have a built-in wear indicator that makes noise to alert you.
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Grinding means the pads are completely worn down, and the metal backing plate is contacting the disc.
Grinding is urgent — you’re likely damaging the discs, and the car may not stop as effectively.
2. 🛞 Vibrations or Juddering When Braking
If your steering wheel or brake pedal vibrates when slowing down, it could mean:
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Your brake discs are warped (often from overheating or wear)
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There’s uneven pad contact due to dirt, rust, or sticking calipers
Either way, it’s a sign your brake system needs inspection and likely replacement.
3. 📏 Visibly Thin Brake Pads
You can often see your brake pads through the wheels. If the pad lining looks thinner than 3mm, it’s time to replace them.
Likewise, if the brake disc surface looks heavily scored, cracked, or corroded, it may need replacing too — especially before your MOT.
4. ⚠️ Brake Warning Light or Low Brake Fluid
Your dashboard brake warning light might come on due to:
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Low brake fluid (often caused by worn pads)
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A brake sensor triggered by pad wear
Either way, don’t ignore the light — it’s a clear sign your braking system needs checking.
5. 🧱 Longer Stopping Distances
If the car feels less responsive when braking — or you have to press the pedal harder than usual — your pads or discs could be too worn to work properly.
This can happen gradually, so many drivers don’t notice right away. That’s why regular brake checks are essential, especially before long journeys or MOTs.
🛠️ How Andrews Car Centre Can Help
We offer:
✅ Same-day disc and pad replacement
✅ Fair, honest pricing
✅ Only OE-quality parts for safety and longevity
Whether you drive a small hatchback or a work van, our experienced team will check your brakes thoroughly — and explain exactly what (if anything) needs replacing.
📍 Book a Brake Check in Lincoln Today
Don’t wait until your brakes grind, fade or fail. Book your free brake check at Andrews Car Centre and drive with confidence.
👉 Call now, book online, or visit our Dixon Street garage in Lincoln to get your brakes checked by the experts.
🔍 Related Searches We Help With:
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